REAL ale fans have voted Northwich's Salty Dog as their spring Pub of the Season for 2019.

The north Cheshire branch of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, recognises pubs and bars that are doing something different to attract customers.

The Salty Dog certainly falls into this category, having established itself within a couple of years as a pub for high-quality beers and live entertainment.

Music fans across the north west have been making the High Street venue a regular haunt, and it has been a driving force behind the Dead Dead Good Weekend festival.

READ >>> List of gigs for Northwich's Dead Dead Good Weekend

Owner Chris Mundie said: “We are really proud to be named as north Cheshire CAMRA’s Pub of The Season.

"We take a great pride in the selection and condition of our beer, the credit has to go to our staff who have been committed to maintaining the quality of our beer from day one.

"We are also very lucky to have so many great suppliers on our doorstep, notably our good friends at Tatton Brewery who have been instrumental in implementing good practice and also supplying great beer.

READ >>> Magical fantasy wedding is out of this world

"As an independent pub it’s great to receive this award – there are more independents popping up in the area all the time and I think with the support of groups like CAMRA the future will be bright."

The Salty Dog was nominated by a CAMRA member, who said: "I’ve experienced some of my best nights at Salty Dog – a combination of fantastic beer, music and an overall great atmosphere."

READ >>> Hoarder family faces losing all their possessions

CAMRA has praised the independent pub for its fair prices and innovation in the face of pressure from larger companies.

It has also been instrumental in boosting Northwich town centre's nightlife.

READ >>> 'Thank you for saving my baby's life'

Gregg Sawyer, from Tatton Brewery, said: "With the arrival of the Salty Dog in Northwich we can see the town changing to embrace the night-time economy.

"Serving good quality beer along with live music is always a winner.

"Chris and his team have become part of the Northwich community and thoroughly deserve this award."